Aston Villa to move for Man United outcast

The Villains have had their spending power reduced this summer with owner Randy Lerner understood to be looking to sell the club, but manager Paul Lambert has been promised the funds to nab the England international.

Cleverley is seen as the ideal addition to ensure that the Midlanders don’t get sucked into another relegation battle, with the much-maligned midfielder having been praised in the past for his energy and creativity.

Lambert’s men are believed to have opened the bidding at £8m, which may be enough to tempt Louis van Gaal to sell.

The 25-year-old is rumoured to have very little in the way of a first-team future at Villa Park, with the club chasing fresh names such as Arturo Vidal and William Carvalho.

Villa hope that the playmaker will be tempted by the chance to get his career back on track after being heavily criticised by some sections of United and England’s fan base for a perceived lack or effort and talent.